Warwick University Hosts TUCO Catering Competition

Warwick University acted as host to The University Caterers Organisation (TUCO) annual competition on the 21 and 22 March 2016.

The two-day competition with various subcategories tests the culinary skills from within higher and further education nationally. This is the first time it has been hosted on the university’s campus.

Subcategories of the competition include: a Bar Skills Competition, Street Food Chef of the Year, and a Barista Skills Challenge, where participants make 12 drinks in 15 minutes, amongst others.

Robert Stordy, from the University of Derby, used 10kg of pastry margarine to create a statue of Alexander the Great

According to the TUCO website, Julie Barker, chair of TUCO, declared the event as “hugely successful”, and pronounced Warwick a “fantastic setting”. The venue was also praised by judges, competitors and spectators.

The various subcategories examine competitors’ skills, presentation, and the taste of their creations. One in particular, Salon Culinaire, displayed a range of impressive sugar crafting skills across some “spectacular creations”.

Robert Stordy, from the University of Derby, used 10kg of pastry margarine to create a statue of Alexander the Great and his horse. He won two gold medals for his creation.

Contestants appeared to enjoy the event throughout, despite some individual unforeseen challenges, such as creations falling to the floor, as one did whilst being placed in the Chancellors Suite.

This year the event boasted a record number of competitors, and in her closing speech, Julie Barker said she felt “inspired and humbled by the level of talent”.

A Gala Dinner concluded this year’s competition, where guests were “treated to a fabulous menu”, and the results were announced.

TUCO post about the event

Competition Winners

Click here to learn more about the Alexander the Great Margarine Statue!